Can honey contain plasticizers and bisphenols?
Some concern. A 2026 study found phthalates, other plasticizers, and BPA in Algerian honey samples. BPA drove the main risk concern.
What's actually in it
Honey can pick up contaminants from containers, beekeeping equipment, air, soil, and water. The chemicals in this study included phthalates such as DMP, DEP, DBP, and DEHP, plus other plasticizers and bisphenol A (BPA).
What the research says
A 2026 Foods study tested honey from coastal and non-coastal areas of Algeria. The researchers reported that no honey sample was free of the tested plasticizers and bisphenols. DBP and DEHP were among the most common and abundant phthalates, and BPA was found at 2.64 to 12.73 micrograms per kilogram.
The authors found that plasticizer exposure stayed within the safety limits used in their assessment. BPA was different. Their dietary risk assessment said BPA exposure raised a toxicological concern for those honey samples.
What you can do
Choose honey in glass jars when you can. Store sticky pantry foods in glass at home, and avoid heating sweet foods in plastic. This will not remove pollution from the food system, but it lowers extra contact from storage.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| From Environment to Hive: Plasticizer and Bisphenols Contamination in Algerian Honeys. | Foods | 2026 |
What to use instead
Use glass jars for pantry storage when glass makes sense for the food.
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